The problem of determining the number of squares on a checkerboard is extended to finding the number of rectangles on an n x n board and finding the total numbers of cubes and rectangular solids in an n x n x n cube. (DT)

A discussion of some number patterns which arose from a consideration of the number of diagonals of a general polygon. (MM)

Some patterns in prime numbers and their implications for general theorems are presented. Much of the material is taken from "The Strong Law of Small Numbers," an unpublished paper by Richard Kenneth Guy. (MP)

Mathematical activities suitable for reproduction as worksheets are suggested. These activities are adaptations of the classic tower puzzle and are intended to help students discover patterns, make generalizations, and use the strategy of solving simpler problems in order to solve a more difficult one. (MK)

Number sequences are useful complements to traditional drill and practice. Described is an activity in which the basic rule, add the tens digit to five times the ones digit, is used to generate a sequence of numbers. The dialogue between teacher and student discussing characteristics of emerging patterns is given. (MDH)

Discusses the problem of how the stars on the American flag would be arranged were another state added to the Union. Presents solutions using linear equations based on conditions given in the problem. (MDH)

Presents three investigations related to the game Bulgarian Solitaire. Investigations ask students to find and represent optimal solutions to the problem, to identify cyclical solution patterns for different numbers, and to respond to questions involving the number and nature of the cyclical solutions. An appendix provides answers to questions.…

Describes "Bop," a game that considers solely the sequence of letters. Words are determined to be equivalent if different letters of one word become different letters in the other word in exactly the same order. Examples of four-, five-, and six-letter words and BOProblems are provided. (MDH)

This section includes eight problems to which the journal invites readers to respond. Problem topics include angles in alternate segments, pentominoes, a new triangle of numbers, cricket scores, symmetrical pentagons, inequalities, a pythagorean dissection, and magic squares. (MDH)

Presents four cases of real-world probabilistic situations to promote more effective teaching of probability. Calculates the probability of obtaining six of six different prizes successively in six, seven, eight, and nine boxes of cereal, generalizes the problem to n boxes of cereal, and offers suggestions to extend the problem. (MDH)

Quilt-making is presented as an activity that helps elementary school children recognize and appreciate geometry in their world while developing their problem-solving skills. Students choose an appropriate pattern and cooperatively make the quilt. Related measurement questions and problems are provided. (MDH)

A mult tile is a set of polygons each of which can be dissected into smaller polygons similar to the original set of polygons. Using a recursive LOGO method that requires solutions to various geometry and trigonometry problems, dissections of mult tiles are carried out repeatedly to produce tile patterns. (MDH)

This set of transparency masters of mathematical puzzles has as its intent the development of logical and perceptual skills. The puzzles include patterns, magic squares, and counting problems. Solutions and follow-up suggestions are provided on the back of each page. (MP)

Exponential growth is examined through an example describing the number pattern formed by postage stamp issuance. Number tables and graphs are used to discover the functional relationship between the number of new stamps issued and time. (MDH)

Solves the problem of the reproduction of rabbit pairs utilizing the Fibonacci sequence. Examines modified versions of the problem, and presents a vignette of one modification based on the author's experience in using the approach with preservice middle school teachers. Extends the approach to other related problems. (MDH)